Giovanni's Shrimp Truck

Seafood restaurant · Kahuku

Giovanni's Shrimp Truck

Seafood restaurant · Kahuku

3

56-505 Kamehameha Hwy, Kahuku, HI 96731

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Giovanni's Shrimp Truck by null
Giovanni's Shrimp Truck by Laura La Monaca
Giovanni's Shrimp Truck by Laura La Monaca
Giovanni's Shrimp Truck by null
Giovanni's Shrimp Truck by null
Giovanni's Shrimp Truck by null
Giovanni's Shrimp Truck by null
Giovanni's Shrimp Truck by null
Giovanni's Shrimp Truck by null
Giovanni's Shrimp Truck by null
Giovanni's Shrimp Truck by null
Giovanni's Shrimp Truck by null
Giovanni's Shrimp Truck by null
Giovanni's Shrimp Truck by null
Giovanni's Shrimp Truck by null
Giovanni's Shrimp Truck by null
Giovanni's Shrimp Truck by null
Giovanni's Shrimp Truck by null
Giovanni's Shrimp Truck by null
Giovanni's Shrimp Truck by null
Giovanni's Shrimp Truck by null
Giovanni's Shrimp Truck by null
Giovanni's Shrimp Truck by null
Giovanni's Shrimp Truck by null
Giovanni's Shrimp Truck by null
Giovanni's Shrimp Truck by null
Giovanni's Shrimp Truck by null
Giovanni's Shrimp Truck by null
Giovanni's Shrimp Truck by null
Giovanni's Shrimp Truck by null
Giovanni's Shrimp Truck by null
Giovanni's Shrimp Truck by null
Giovanni's Shrimp Truck by null
Giovanni's Shrimp Truck by null
Giovanni's Shrimp Truck by null
Giovanni's Shrimp Truck by null
Giovanni's Shrimp Truck by null
Giovanni's Shrimp Truck by null
Giovanni's Shrimp Truck by null
Giovanni's Shrimp Truck by null
Giovanni's Shrimp Truck by null
Giovanni's Shrimp Truck by null
Giovanni's Shrimp Truck by null
Giovanni's Shrimp Truck by null

Highlights

Giovanni's is the OG North Shore food truck serving buttery, garlicky shrimp plates with picnic tables, locals' charm, and a no-frills vibe.  

Featured in The Infatuation
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56-505 Kamehameha Hwy, Kahuku, HI 96731 Get directions

giovannisshrimptruck.com

$10–20 · Menu

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56-505 Kamehameha Hwy, Kahuku, HI 96731 Get directions

+1 808 293 1839
giovannisshrimptruck.com

$10–20 · Menu

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Last updated

Jul 30, 2025

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The 21 Best Restaurants In Honolulu, Oahu 2024

"Kahuku, about an hour’s drive from Honolulu along the scenic windward coast, is practically synonymous with shrimp trucks: the smell of garlic signals you’re close. And Giovanni’s is arguably the best of them all. It’s permanently parked among other food trucks in a lot with a shaded area accommodating plastic picnic tables—you’ll know Giovanni’s instantly from the long lines. The shrimp (imported, for consistency) are cooked shell-on in lemon butter with heaps of chopped garlic, so don’t come with someone you’re trying to impress." - martha cheng

https://www.theinfatuation.com/oahu/guides/best-restaurants-oahu-honolulu-waikiki-hawaii
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@infatuation

Giovanni's Shrimp Truck Review - Kahuku - Oahu - The Infatuation

"Kahuku, about an hour’s drive from Honolulu along the scenic windward coast, is practically synonymous with shrimp trucks: the smell of garlic signals you’re close. And Giovanni’s is arguably the best of them all. It’s permanently parked among other food trucks in a lot with a shaded area accommodating plastic picnic tables—you’ll know Giovanni’s instantly from the long lines. The shrimp (imported, for consistency) are cooked shell-on in lemon butter with heaps of chopped garlic, so don’t come with someone you’re trying to impress." - Martha Cheng

https://www.theinfatuation.com/oahu/reviews/giovannis-shrimp-truck
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@jopleta

This was really good, but you have to love butter and garlic lol

Oahu
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Barb P

Google
Went on a Monday at 4pm and there wasn’t a line but felt rushed by the guy taking orders. Although the guy was rude, I can’t deny the fact that they ran like a well oiled machine and food was delicious. By the time my credit card payment went through, my food was being handed to me. We got the scampi shrimp and the spicy sauce on the side. Great flavor and the rice was perfectly cooked. Definitely need to stop here and worth the hype. Didn’t have any trouble finding parking.

Quynh Dang

Google
I had the scampi plate and it was ok. Overcooked shrimp for me. My husband had lemon butter that I thought was much better. The place was packed without available parking at all. Fast service though. And no problem with sharing tables with fellow diners. Just want to add a ✔️ to Oahu experiences. On the way back to the hotel, I saw another Giovanni location closer to me , that I should have tried, less crowded and free parking. Oh well.

Andrea Nolker

Google
Since watching the hawaiian travelers YouTube channel I knew that Giovanni's was a must eat for my 1st time on the island. We got the garlic shrimp and the lemon shrimp and a side of Mac & cheese. The shrimp was so juicy and cooked to perfection. Normally, we heard there can be a wait for up to 2 hours but luckily I had our orders in hand within a few moments of pulling in. This truck is a must eat at. Also take a sharpie with you, they let you write on their truck ♡

Andy Topete

Google
Had to stop by Giovanni's after several recommendations. And while the food wasn't bad, it didn't not live up to the hype. It could be that our food was a little cold and perspective from another spot that we tried prior (Tanaka Shrimp spicy garlic shrimp was superior 👌🏼). HOWEVER I will say Giovanni's gives you more shrimp for the money and I can see it just being an off day. Also staff was great they even threw in a drink for us which was really nice. Additionally the location is pretty great, there are so many options surrounding it. So if you're still in the mood for something else after stopping by for shrimp there's a lot to pick from.

Sang Ha

Google
Love the atmosphere here! There were multiple food outlet here and not just Giovanni’s. I ordered the regular garlic shrimp and it was phenomenal! Order a whole coconut from the stall next door and that just completes the set. Nice breeze environment near the beaches!

Lesley Tan

Google
Giovanni's is one of those iconic North Shore stops that lives up to the hype. The line can be long, but it moves quickly--and trust me, it's worth it. The flavors are bold, garlicky, and unforgettable, with shrimp cooked to perfection and dripping with sauce that you'll want to scoop up with every grain of rice. It's definitely a no-frills setup: picnic tables, paper plates, and Sharpie-signed walls, but that's part of the charm. You're not here for fine dining--you're here for damn good shrimp under the Hawaiian sun. Vibe: Casual, communal, and full of energy. Wait Time: Expect a line, especially on weekends. Parking: Lot on-site, but it can get crowded--carpool if you can. Pro Tip: Bring wipes or napkins--you'll need them. Would I come back? In a heartbeat. It's a North Shore classic for a reason.

Tom Bouwhuis

Google
While exploring the North Shore, we tried two popular shrimp trucks: Giovanni’s and Tanaka Kahuku Shrimp. Without a doubt, Tanaka Kahuku Shrimp was the better of the two. When we arrived at Giovanni’s, there was a long line, which raised our expectations—but unfortunately, the food didn’t live up to the hype. The shrimp were small (you get 12 per plate), lacked freshness, and were noticeably under-seasoned. The strong garlic flavor was a plus, but it couldn’t make up for the lack of salt and overall quality. To top it off, the staff—especially the woman handing out plates at the window—was unfriendly and quite rude.

Anna Yee

Google
The garlic shrimp rice was delicious, and the rice was very soft. The spicy shrimp rice was really too spicy and sour; I didn't like it much. At 3 PM, there weren't many people on line.The lady selling the food had a very serious expression, which was a bit scary. 👻

T S.

Yelp
The shrimp is great but I cannot say the same about the customer service there at the Kahuku spot. They seriously need some lessons on how to give better customer service. "Be kind. It's really not that hard."

Shannon E.

Yelp
Just amazing!!! It is everything you think and even more. Don't be put off by the line. It goes super fast and is totally worth the wait!
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Raquel S.

Yelp
Giovanni's Shrimp Truck was a must stop on our circle island tour of Oahu. I ordered the shrimp scampi. It came with a dozen unpeeled shrimp, two scoops of rice, and a lemon wedge for $17.50 cash ( you can pay with a credit union-- they add tax and 3% processing fee). It was a good satisfying meal, messy to eat--but they give you an extra paper plate for the shells. (There is a hand washing station provided so you can clean up after your meal!) Parking is hit or miss depending on what time you arrive. We got lucky and found a great spot! Service could be friendlier--the girl taking the orders was all business and I didn't feel comfortable asking any questions even though it was my first time eating there. There is a big wooden gazebo with picnic tables for dining. Be prepared to see roosters, chickens, birds, cats, etc. walking around everywhere. There are lots of other food trucks you can dine at in the same lot.
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Damian S.

Yelp
Our first time visiting Hawai'i, we were so excited to try Giovanni's Shrimp Truck after hearing so much about it. Unfortunately, it did not live up to the hype for us. I ordered the "Hot & Spicy Shrimp," and my wife had the "Shrimp Scampi." As someone who loves spicy food (I'm Caribbean), I was expecting a flavorful kick, but instead, all I got was pepper. Just pepper. For anyone who loves spice, you know there's a huge difference between heat and flavor, and this meal missed the mark. The shrimp had no depth or seasoning, just an overpowering, one-note spiciness. My wife's "Shrimp Scampi" was slightly better, but it was completely overwhelmed by an absurd amount of garlic. We're talking garlic overload--it masked the shrimp entirely. It felt like we were eating garlic with a side of shrimp, not the other way around. The atmosphere also left much to be desired. The area was quite dirty, with garbage piling up due to the large crowds. We even took a glance inside the truck, and what we saw was concerning. There were rusted coolers with visible dirt and what appeared to be mold at the bottom. It honestly looked like the kind of setup that might not pass a health inspection. What surprised us most was that other people dining near us--like a Japanese family and a Hawaiian family visiting from the Big Island--were saying the same things about their meals. It made us wonder: is this place popular just because of celebrity hype? Are people afraid to say what they really think? After leaving Giovanni's disappointed, we decided to try a few of the other nearby food trucks. To our surprise, the food at those trucks was significantly better, with fresh ingredients and more balanced flavors. It's sad that they don't get as much attention because they were honestly the highlight of our day. In the end, I wouldn't say "don't try it" because everyone's tastes are different, but I'd advise you not to blindly believe the hype. For us, Giovanni's was mediocre at best. Pro Tip: Explore the other food trucks in the area--you might be pleasantly surprised!
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Robert K.

Yelp
Well if you make your way over to Kahuku you for sure have to stop here for some amazing garlic shrimp. Because the amount of shrimp you get is fantastic for the price you pay. Ended up wanting to try the shrimp scampi as well as the hot and spicy and I enjoyed them both but I have to say mixing them together made it even better. You got the spice of the hot and spicy but the garliciness of the scampi. Glad I made the decision to do both. The staff were very nice and very quick with getting the food out. And the seating area was perfect cause there's also a hand washing station when you are done cause it does get a little messy pealing the shell off but is for sure all worth it! Definitely go back each time when back on that side of the island.
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Nicki A.

Yelp
We ordered the Scampi and it was definitely worth it the hype, so buttery and garlicky and delicious. I also tried the lemon butter which was also pretty good but I'd get the scampi if I ordered again. We got lucky with quick service, but right before us, there was a line! We also got lucky with a table nearby as it was outdoors with picnic/bbq vibes with other food trucks nearby.
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Wendell R.

Yelp
Giovanni's Shrimp Truck is an absolute must-visit when you're on the island! We made it a point to return during our tour this year after experiencing it last year, and it did not disappoint. The garlic shrimp is simply out of this world--flavorful, succulent, and cooked to perfection. Don't forget to grab a side of their Hawaiian macaroni salad; it's the perfect complement to the shrimp and helps lighten the load just a bit. The vibrant atmosphere and the delicious food make it a destination spot you won't want to miss. If you're in the area, make sure to swing by Giovanni's--you won't regret it!
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Emily L.

Yelp
12.17.2o24 The best garlic shrimp I've ever had so far. Stopped by for lunch. There are different flavors. Most of us got the scampi and it was perfect. The shrimp was very fresh and bouncy. The spicy was not so much. Maybe less ppl are buying it and it's been sitting there? The spicy one was very spicy but definitely not as enjoyable as the scampi flavor. The rice was also very good. It's on the soft side. I would say it's all about the garlic sauce. Then we got a pineapple smoothie next door or next truck and it was a perfect pair. The downside is...there was so many flies! I feel like I didn't get to enjoy the food as much as I wanted bc i had to constantly waving the flies away. Arrghhh those darn flies.
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Joan L.

Yelp
Heard about this on @tiffycooks IG and thought i'd go if it were ever possible...So late August finds us driving the North Shore of Oahu and there it is! In the afternoon- no lines- quick order taking and then garlic heaven for your palate!!! Could seriously just eat the garlic with rice by itself it's soooo delish!!! Definitely worth the trip! and you're dining among the roosters LOL!
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Hannah H.

Yelp
I was pretty excited to try out Giovanni's Shrimp Truck, as they are known for their use of white shrimp and their Shrimp Scampi dish. While we were in Kahuku, I was fortunate enough to check out their original food truck, parked right in front of a picnic seating area. I ordered the Shrimp Scamp, which came with 2 scoops of rice; the shrimp, shell-on, are marinated in olive oil, chopped garlic, and lemon butter; this sauce is also drizzled over the rice. Definitely a messy meal, as if you didn't prepare in advance by bringing disposable gloves, just be ready! The shrimp itself was large and coated well with the sauce; however, it was slightly on the bland side, needing a bit more salt. The shrimp itself was piping hot, which was a plus. Rice could have been prepared better, but the extra sauce on top definitely helped. Orders did come out pretty quickly, depending on the line. Staff could have been more friendlier and dressed with a smile. +picnic dining area available +parking available
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Sarah K.

Yelp
Note - the food trucks have a private parking lot for $2 entrance fee. If you go at a popular time, there might be a bottleneck effect and you will have to wait a while just to get into the parking lot to park, as you're only allowed to enter after paying if a spot opens up. Ordered the shrimp scampi with a side of Mac salad and asked for a side of the hot sauce to sample. The shrimp was good, but I dont think I'd be driving all the way back to north shore for this. It was a little too saucy for me and the seasoning of the shrimp wasn't particularly my favorite. The shrimp aren't peeled, so get ready to either eat the shell or get your hands dirty and peel it. The Mac salad was good, but also not amazing. I went on a Sunday around 2pm, and I think I still waited about ~15 minutes for my food. After ordering at the left window, your number will get called from the right window. Numbers before and after mine were being called, so I went up to the pickup window to ask about my order; and turns out my ticket wasn't there... so my order was prepared right then. Great customer service, since my order was prepared right away. After you order/pickup your food from the windows; there is dedicated seating for Giovanni's in front of the truck. It is kind of dirty in the sense that there are birds, chicken, and flies everywhere. If that is also a concern for you, I'd recommend eating it at your car on the hood or taking it to go and eating it elsewhere. Overall, I'm glad I tried the famous shrimp truck, but it personally wasn't a style/preparation of shrimp that I was in love with. It was good, but not aligned with my flavor preferences.
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Lakethia L.

Yelp
On a day trip to the North Shore, we visited Giovanni's Shrimp truck in Kahuku (there's another truck location in Haleiwa). I'd heard mixed reviews about Giovanni's but I wanted to try for myself. It was in a cute area with lots of other food trucks and shopping nearby. Great music played while waiting. The staff were very friendly. I ordered the scampi shrimp plate but asked for a side of the hot & spicy sauce. The shrimp were cooked perfectly and the garlic flavors were sooo delicious! I'm so glad I tried it for myself! I liked the spicy sauce (for dipping). I love spicy foods but I'm glad I got a side of the sauce only because it's very HOT! I believe there's a warning about the hot & spicy shrimp on the menu so beware
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Cindy D.

Yelp
The shrimp here is absolutely delicious, loaded with garlic and bursting with flavor--it's a dish that instantly brought back memories of Portugal. Don't forget to squeeze the lemon over the shrimp for that perfect zesty finish; it takes the flavor to the next level! This food truck is definitely one of the most popular spots in the area, and it's easy to see why. Every bite was so good, the entire plate was gone before we knew it. There was no line when we arrived, but finding open seating can be a bit tricky. The setup is casual, with shared benches, so be prepared to sit with others. Highly recommend this spot for a flavorful and satisfying meal--don't miss out on the garlic shrimp!
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Lloyd C.

Yelp
Whenever you come to Oahu, Giovanni's Shrimp Truck is on your mind as one of the things you need to experience. Sure, there are other places nowadays, but they are the OG. This truck/location is the 2nd one. Garlic Shrimp (5/5). Served with 2 scoops of rice. Easy to peel shrimp,lightly dusted with cornstarch/flour, pan-fried and loaded with lots of garlic and butter! They provide tables with bench seating in an covered cemented area for your convenience. The only con is dealing with the flies.
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Ray L.

Yelp
This place is way too overhyped. Like it is good but not amazing. Food: 3/5 We got the shrimp scampi plate and it was alright. The scampi and garlic sauce were delicious. The shrimp itself was mediocre. It was basically just boiled shrimp and lacked flavor. The only flavor was in the sauce, but once you peel the shrimp there was little to no flavor. Price: 3/5 This place is pretty damn pricey. It was $17.50 for a pretty small plate of food. We were still pretty hungry after the plate. Also, they charge 3% for credit card, so I suggest bringing cash. Service: 5/5 I think the service was pretty good. Even though there was a long line, it moved quickly. The food also came out fairly quickly. Ambiance: 4/5 This place has a chill island vibe. It's a cool food truck, where you eat under a canopy/hut. There are wild chickens and cats roaming around.
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Moises T.

Yelp
Giovanni's Shrimp Truck is a slice of North Shore paradise for anyone craving intense, delicious garlic flavors. The star of the menu, the iconic garlic shrimp scampi, is an experience you'll find unforgettable. Each bite hits you with a punch of garlicky richness that coats the shrimp, which are tender and juicy, cooked perfectly to lock in their natural sweetness. Shell-on, they arrive drenched in a golden garlic-butter sauce, making them irresistible. As you peel the shrimp, your fingers catch hints of garlic and butter, adding to the full sensory experience. The scampi comes with a mound of rice that's anything but an afterthought--its purpose is to soak up every drop of that rich garlic sauce left on the plate. The rice, saturated with garlic and butter, becomes almost as addictive as the shrimp itself. Each grain captures the essence of the garlic, transforming what could be a simple side into a flavor bomb that complements the shrimp beautifully. Giovanni's sets up an unforgettable, no-frills meal that captures the best of Oʻahu's food truck culture, where casual meets culinary excellence. It's a dish that doesn't need fancy extras because the flavors speak for themselves, making Giovanni's garlic shrimp scampi a must-try for anyone looking to experience the heart and soul of Hawaiian flavors.
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Jesse R.

Yelp
Decided to go here because Romys was closed today. It honestly doesn't hit the same as it used to. For these 3 things it was $40, I just wish they put more garlic on the shrimp like they used to. The workers are nice, there was no wait and the parking lot had some parking left. If people are going to pay $18 a plate, I wish it was more worth it. Shrimp: good wish it had more garlic. Hotdog: get it with rice because the garlic rice is bomb. The rice wasn't mushy today :) Tip: bring cash because they charge 3% for cards :)
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Whit D.

Yelp
Seen on instagram, so you know we had to check it out. Good selection of choices and a good portion of shrimp and rice. Ordered the shrimp scampi; which was delicious. The shrimp are still in the shells; so you have to take them off yourselves ; (which can be super messy). It's a good portion to share or eat on your own ; whichever you prefer. The shrimp are a good size and they don't skimp on the garlic. I wish the garlic was fresh though ; tasted more out of a jar. There are picnic tables to sit; can get packed fast though. Some flies can possibly be flying around ; so watch your food. There are other food trucks and vendors in the same area; don't forget to check them out also. If you check into yelp at the shrimp truck you get a free soda; which comes in handy.
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Sophia T.

Yelp
Giovanni's is a well-known shrimp truck on the island, and after hearing so much about it and reading many glowing reviews, I had to give it a try. Although there was a small line, the wait was quick--our food was ready in about 10 minutes. One nice feature is the shaded seating area right in front of the truck, which makes it easy to enjoy your meal on-site. I ordered the shrimp scampi, but I found it underwhelming. Each plate comes with 12 jumbo shrimp, and while I was happy with the size of the shrimp, the amount of garlic was excessive. I love garlic and typically use a lot in my own cooking, but this was overpowering. I think the shrimp would pair better with pasta instead of rice to balance out the strong garlic flavor. I don't think this dish is something I'll crave the next time I'm on the island but I'm happy to have tried it!
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Mike L.

Yelp
Giovanni's is a well-known stop for shrimp lovers, and it mostly lived up to the reputation. We ordered the garlic shrimp platter, which came with two scoops of rice and a generous pile of shrimp. For fun, we also grabbed some garlic shrimp from the neighboring Honos Shrimp Truck to compare the two. While Giovanni's shrimp were on the smaller side, we found the flavor to be much better--more garlicky and rich than Honos'. The shrimp were well-cooked and seasoned, making up for their smaller size. Parking is relatively easy if you're lucky to get a spot on the on-site lot ($2 fee on entry). Overall, Giovanni's stands out for the taste and was definitely one of the better options among the food trucks in the area.
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Kyle R.

Yelp
I've heard so many good reviews of this shrimp and wow it was absolutely delicious. Really good price for a good portion of food. Quick service as well. Polite staff. Great location, a definite must while on Oahu.
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Jeannie N.

Yelp
We stopped by on a GREAT day (mostly). Line was long as usual (no surprise), but went quickly. We got two shrimp plates and they were as good as everyone says they are. Might've gotten an off batch of rice though, it was super wet (think porridge consistency). I had to go to another truck and get sides of rice. The shrimp itself was well-made. Texture of the shrimp and the seasoning tastes as good as the pictures look. Overall no foul, food was great. We even sat next to some really nice visitors who literally tried a few shrimp off their plate and gave us the rest of it (think: practically untouched). Would come here again.
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Laura D.

Yelp
Giovanni's has been my family's go to shrimp truck since foreverrrr and it's still our go to. Prices have definitely gone up, 17.50 for a plate, but that garlicky buttery goodness, I can't resist!! Also it's not cash only anymore!!!
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Rob B.

Yelp
We ordered one of everything on the menu, my personal favorite was the shrimp scampi. The spicy was also good and the lemon butter wasn't bad but not for me. I didn't try the garlic dog but my wife and brother said it was good. Great service as well, line is long but moves very quickly.
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Mykalah L.

Yelp
This was the best truck in the little stop to me personally . The hot sauce is so fresh it's vinegar based and you can tell it's personally made !!! 10/10 they did have a half plate and that's what I got :) Plus check in on yelp and got a free soda !! They take cash !!
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Karen M.

Yelp
15 years later it still hits!!!! That spicy hot sauce, chefs kiss!!! Wish I could have some more!!!definitely worth the drive to the north shore! It was crowded but the line to order was not long and we did not have to wait long for our food either! It is $2 to park in the food truck area
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Annie Y.

Yelp
You'd have to drive out here to get their shrimp, but the drive out here is scenic and beautiful. They have a small parking lot and some outdoor tables. I ordered the Scampi and Garlic Hotdog. The Scampi was okay to me, still good, but not as flavorful as the Garlic Hotdog. The Garlic Hotdog was delicious because it was packed with garlic flavor and less bland. It does come with scoops of rice. Recommendation(s): - Garlic Hotdog Service: 5/5 Tip(s): - Accept Apple Pay - Small parking lot - They have a sink outside where you can wash your hands, but no soap or paper towels at the time I went
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Jessica B.

Yelp
I've been to Oahu a few times, but have never tried Giovanni's so it was a must this time around. It's true this place lives up to the hype. The truck in Kahuku wasn't hard to find. They have multiple locations even in Waikiki, but we just had to try this location based on the reviews. The serving size was great and the food was just so delicious. The shrimp was cooked perfectly and so was the garlic! I was actually impressed. There wasn't a wait at the time we visited and a lot of available seating. I wish they had soap available for hand washing, but that's the only "negative" I have even though it's not much to complain about. Would definitely go here again next time we're in Oahu!
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Cynthia M.

Yelp
We stopped here because I've heard so many things about this food truck. At first glance I honestly wasn't impressed on how the truck looked. However, there were many people eating and a line, not very long. It was a busy place so I thought we weren't going to find a parking space, but they had people directing us to a parking lot. When I ordered some shrimp, it came with a ball of rice. I actually ordered a half portion (you need to ask for that because it's not on the menu) because we had recently eaten, but I still wanted to try it. Let me tell you, it was delicious! NOW I understand why this shrimp truck is famous! WHEN we go back to Oahu, we will stop by here again!
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latrina r.

Yelp
Loved the food!! Enjoyed the chickens walking around & the signing of the food truck
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Eric W.

Yelp
(Last visited December 6, 2022.) Vacationing in Hawaii for a while and a friend of mine told me about the legendary shrimp trucks on the island of Oahu! So while touring the island on our own we made our way to one of 3 Giovanni's Shrimp Truck locations here in Haleiwa! Here's how it went! Atmosphere/Appearance: I mmmeeeaaannn... it's a food truck in a parking lot with other food trucks. Lol. There isn't much to it, but what IS cool is that the food truck is RIDDLED with graffiti. It kinda adds a unique touch to it and I liked that. Service: Again, it's a food truck so it's not a lot of service here, but we did meet Mel, who isn't the owner of the Giovanni's empire, but does run this specific truck. She was fun, personable, inviting and just a good time. Food: So we were able to try a few things here, but it's a shrimp truck so everything is going to be shrimp related... except for the random garlic hot dog on the menu. Lol. First up was the shrimp scampi + rice plate. You get 2 scoops of rice with each plate. The rice is steamed and sticky. It's pretty flavorless if you get the rice that's underneath all the stuff that's poured on top. Make sure you stir your rice so you get all the sEEEEEasonin'! The shrimp is DELICIOUS. It's cooked well, tender and not terribly salty, which I was surprised by. The garlic was strong, but I really liked it. However, it's time for the hot sauce. When you go to buy there's a sign that says "no refunds". Lol. Who's trying to get refunds from hot sauce?! Weak folks. Ha. Anyway, this is an award winning sauce that was very good, not too viscous and not terribly spicy at all, but a good complement to the shrimp. One thing that bothered me is that the shrimp are served with the shells/tails still on. However, you're supposed to use the suck, peel & eat method where you suck all the seasoning/sauce off, peel the shrimp then re-dip it in the juices left at the bottom of the tray. Lol. Then eat. Fine... gotta put in some work, but still good regardless. But I believe I'm favorite of the day was the lemon butter shrimp. The flavors were so simple, yet so powerful. The citrus flavor works so well with the creamy, salty butter flavor. My goodness. Value: At the time, a plate of shrimp and rice would run you $16.00. I have no idea what they cost now, but for that price, it's easily a super affordable lunch that'll fill you up. In conclusion, it's worth making the drive up here to check this place out. They have literally 5-figures worth of positive reviews between all of their locations and rightfully so!
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Nicole D.

Yelp
Travelled to Hawaii for the first time and it seemed like everyone we asked for a good spot on the North Shore recommended Giovanni's. Was a little tough on the parking but we got lucky with street parking. Once we got there you could smell the food combination in the air from all the food trucks which made me even more hungry than I was. I was so ready to shrimp out! The look of the truck lowkey scared me initially but the line was decently long which made me think "people don't wait in these kinds of lines if it wasn't good right?". This was one of the biggest "don't judge a book by its cover" moments because the shrimp was FENOMENAL. The way it was cooked juicy with the right amount of garlic just made it melt in my mouth. I love the fact that they leave the shell on because it makes you work for your food which adds to the experience. The mac salad was refreshing and balanced the dish perfectly. Honestly I can add to the hype because it's worth it. If you're enjoying your day on the North Shore make sure to stop by Giovanni's!
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EM H.

Yelp
After hearing all of the raves about Giovanni's Shrimp Truck, I had to check out what the hype was all about. Of course, I had to go to where it all began, at the original spot here on Kamehameha in historic Kuhuku town. We visited on Friday, September 8, 2023, arriving shorty before 6 PM. We were not met by a long line at that time, lucky for us. PROS: * 1 free Soda if you check in via Yelp. * The SCAMPI PLATE ($16) is ONO (delicious)! My mouth is watering as I write this review. * Free parking & covered outdoor dining area. * Fast service. * If you like animals, you might enjoy eating in the company of free roaming roosters. CONS: * CASH ONLY! At least on the day of our visit, they didn't accept debit nor credit cards. Nowhere on their website did they post this. For this reason, I had to dock off a star from my rating. Good thing that we had just enough cash for a SCAMPI PLATE. * If you don't like birds or eating around them, you might not enjoy the roosters approaching you at your table. The SCAMPI PLATE definitely lived up to the hype. I will definitely return for more...and bring cash, just in case.
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Michael W.

Yelp
Many of my friends had tried Giovanni's Shrimp Truck before I did. So, I had very high expectations when I was there. They are not disappointed. I love their garlic shrimp. I wish they were in California! Lol The service is fast and easy when I order and pick up my food. It only takes a few minutes to wait. The dining area is one of the best compared to any food truck. They have a covered area with many tables so we can enjoy the food and drinks!
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Sam B.

Yelp
Yummy !! That's all I can say about this place. It lives up to its expectations.. honestly.. I would travel to this place to just have their shrimp. It is that good. There is always a long long line to get to the truck and place your order but it doesn't take that long to get your food. The truck now has multiple other vendors parked around it so you have other options to try out too. The shrimp were succulent and the garlic butter sauce was a bomb. You need to wait a little bit to get a table as the place is buzzing but worth it!!
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Amy A.

Yelp
Love the covered patio eating area because it was pouring. Here's our shrimp plates, the garlic one was the best! Also they have awesome shirts to buy as gifts :)
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Hnin T.

Yelp
This was the best garlic shrimp lunch I've ever had! The service was so nice and the ambiance was great. There was tables to sit outside and a handwashing station. The scampi was delicious and savory. The garlic was very delicious the garlic sauce on the rice was delicious. I also recommend buying the hot sauce on the side it was yummy.
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Prasiddha H.

Yelp
Went to Giovanni's to try the famous food truck and glad we did! This place was crowded and the line was long but thankfully it moved forward relatively quickly. Service was fast and once you got the food you ate on the tables outside. Very casual but perfect for some shrimp! I ordered the shrimp scampi plate which came with 2 scoops of rice and lots of shrimp. The shrimp was easy to peel and yes the rice was a little soggy but I didn't mind it. The sauce was delicious though and I enjoyed every bite! Definitely a good spot to stop when there! I also got house made Mac salad when there which was around $2 which was nice. Overall total was around $21 before tip, so definitely pricey for what you get but it was good!
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Henry C.

Yelp
The line is long, but moves decently fast. There is shaded. seating right in front of the truck, but you may need to fight some people for seating. If you lose, the rest of the seating areas are in the blazing sun. The scampi is oily and has loads of garlic. The hot&spicy has a buffalo type of spice to it. It is on the spicier side. I love spice and have quite a high tolerance, so it wasn't too spicy, but I've heard others complains, so beware. Overall, tasty shrimps. The rice is a little too mushy for me. But I do think it's over hyped. I'm from California, and I've had similar and better. If you have time or you're around, try it out, but if you can't, nothing to be sad about.
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Alyssa T.

Yelp
We went around 2pm and there was still a small line. We were able to move through the line and order within about 10 minutes. The plates are enough to share and all the shrimp are always cooked perfectly. It's definitely worth the drive and it ranks as my #1 compared to all of the other shrimp trucks. There is plenty of covered seating available and they have a sink to wash your hands at the end of the seating area.
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Serena L.

Yelp
Tasty dozen garlic shrimp over rice from a food truck. Shrimps were fresh and of good size. Very popular food truck in a parking lot with a few others.
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Tiffany T.

Yelp
Wanted to see the hype for Giovanni shrimp truck. Ordered the classic garlic shrimp & rice dish. The shrimp was juice & delicious but too heavy on the lemon. Service was super quick. Ambiance was lackluster but At least there's tables and shade. Prices are a little high
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Sarah M.

Yelp
The line for this place was long but moved surprisingly quick. Workers are friendly. Definitely recommend the shrimp scampi over the other flavors. Skip the Mac salad, it was meh, not much flavor. Lots of seating around. You get 12 shrimp & 2 scoops of rice. One plate did fill me up pretty well. Overall, it was good but it did feel a little overhyped. It was good but not mind blowing like I expected from all the rave reviews & it was expensive. About $18 for 12 shrimps & 2 scoops of rice.

Vincent C.

Yelp
The shrimp was fresh and delicious. If you choose the hot option, they douse it in tabasco.
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Terri C.

Yelp
Giovanni's Shrimp Truck is so famous that a review from me will be redundant, so I'll keep it short. A plate of tasty garlic shrimp and rice cost $16 yesterday, April 15, 2024. The guys working there are friendly and efficient; even with a line, we quickly got our food order. Patio seating is first come, first served. Watch out for bees buzzing around. There's a sink and soap for you to wash up after you've devoured your meal. Vampies, beware.
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Abigail Joy Y.

Yelp
We came here on Thursday afternoon before we went to PCC and there was a long line but it was a short wait as it was a fast service. My best friend and I decided that we're gonna split a plate since it had a dozen shrimp. We ordered #1, Scampi 100/10!! Oh, man! that flavor of garlic and butter just explodes in your mouth with a hint of lemon all of a sudden I regretted splitting a plate LOL. I would definitely come back here and try their other flavors. The place has a good amount of parking space and has plenty of picnic tables to sit on. Just beware of bees, if you're allergic to them I'd say just eat in your car or try to steer away from them. The amount of bees flying everywhere was just crazy.
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Ethan C.

Yelp
A little overrated not gonna lie but the shrimps were pretty tasty and juicy with the garlic sauce.
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Sabrina T.

Yelp
Giovanni's is extremely overrated. There're so many better tasting garlic shrimp around the island. I got a Scampi along with a side order of the hot & spicy. The hot and spicy tastes like shrimp drenched in Tabasco sauce, it was very sour and spicy not really any other flavors or it. The. scampi was drenched in oil. The shrimps were overcooked and it was topped with garlic but there wasn't any additional depth to the dish. There was a line towards the end of the patio but it moved fairly quickly once we got our orders in. It was very convenient that they had patio seats along with a sink and soap for you to wash up after eating. But I'd recommend skipping this spot. As you're driving along the North Shore you'll run into a lot of other and better spots.
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Eva C.

Yelp
Very popular online so I had to check it out! The food truck is located in an area with other food trucks, and although the line is long, they are fairly efficient at preparing and serving the food once you've placed your order. This place only accepts cash. There is a general outdoor seating area. The $16 garlic shrimp is marinated in olive oil and freshly chopped garlic, then sautéed in a pan. The lemon butter shrimp is boiled or steamed in a lemon and butter sauce, served with dipping sauce on the side. Each plate comes with a dozen jumbo shrimp and 2 scoops of rice, which is stickier and wetter than what I'm used to and didn't quite suit my taste. Personally, I really enjoyed the flavorful garlic shrimp, but found the lemon butter shrimp to be mediocre. The quality of the shrimp was good, but I didn't prefer the flavor as much. Next time, I would skip the lemon butter and just go for the garlic shrimp. However, I will note that the shrimp dishes are quite oily and the overall cost is pricy for what you receive.